Understanding the behaviour of analysts working with online violent extremist content

Professionals outside the criminal justice system increasingly encounter distressing online content. Open-source intelligence analysts at Tech Against Terrorism (TAT) frequently analyse terrorism and violent extremism (TVE) content, including hate speech and graphic violence, posing psychological risks. While research exists on criminal justice personnel, studies on other professionals are limited, often relying on small samples and cross-sectional surveys.
This study, in collaboration with TAT, explores distress and resilience factors among analysts and examines structural brain changes from TVE exposure. This research is grounded in the model proposed by Woodhams and Duran (2004), which links occupational exposure to distressing content with PTSD. This model suggests that exposure to such material creates a pervasive sense of threat, often reported by those handling violent content. It will serve as a foundation for examining how analysts process and respond to it and its impact on their mental health.
A mixed-methods approach integrating qualitative and quantitative data will be conducted. A sample of 20-30 TAT analysts will participate in an 18-month study. Data collection includes psychometric assessments, semi-structured interviews, and MRI scans. Psychometric testing at baseline and three six-month intervals will measure stress, burnout, depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. Multilevel modelling will analyse this data. Interviews at two time points will explore emotional responses and coping strategies. MRI scans at baseline and after 12-18 months will assess structural brain changes using ANOVA techniques via CAT12.
This study aims to provide TAT with insights into psychological risks and resilience factors, informing mental health interventions and workplace support. Findings will contribute to broader occupational mental health strategies and theoretical models on the impact of repeated exposure to harmful online content.